Unlocking Mental Health Support: Discover Cornwall’s Community Fairs

Cornwall is set to host a series of community mental health fairs during Mental Health Awareness Week, under the auspices of the Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

This noteworthy event is scheduled from the 14th to 16th of May, aimed at celebrating the journey to recovery and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.

A Community Effort

The fairs, set to take place at various locations including Camborne, Fraddon, and Bodmin, will feature over 13 voluntary sector organisations such as Pentreath, Sport in Mind, Music for Good, Healthy Cornwall and Cornwall Mind. Members of the Trust’s Talking Therapies, perinatal and complex emotional difficulties services will also have stalls.

Sarah-Lou Skitt, the head of Nursing and Allied Professionals, expressed her enthusiasm for the event. “Admitting to and asking for support for mental health issues takes courage,” she noted. The fairs aim to create a relaxed environment where individuals can engage in informal discussions about the support they need.

Celebrating Recovery

These fairs are not just about signposting support but are also about enjoyment and celebration. “These days are about celebrating. We want to celebrate the hard work of recovery and the people and organisations that support the process,” said Sarah-Lou.

Preparations are in full swing with service users decorating the venues and local organisations donating raffle prizes. Attendees can look forward to a variety of activities, including music workshops by Music for Good and art and gardening sessions led by local artists.

More Than Mental Health

Zannagh Hatton, a Resource Centre Recovery Worker, highlighted the holistic approach of the events. “We want to remind people that whilst mental health is bringing us together at these events, we are all so much more than our mental health,” she said. The fairs are designed to offer something for everyone, from creating art to making music, or simply enjoying a conversation over lunch or a traditional Cornish cream tea.

Event Details

The fairs will run from 10am to 4pm at the following locations:

• Tuesday, 14 May at Boundervean Day Resource Centre, Camborne
• Wednesday, 15 May at Fraddon Village Hall
• Thursday, 16 May at Trelil Court, Bodmin

For those interested in attending or learning more about the event, details are available on the Trust’s website.

This initiative offers a unique opportunity for individuals within the community to come together, offering support and celebrating the strides made in mental health recovery. Whether you’re seeking support or simply want to join in the festivities, these community fairs provide a welcoming space for all.